BEING a police officer is a high-stress, hugely important job.

Officers deal daily with vulnerable, disturbed and sometimes dangerous people. They may be called at the drop of a hat to attend a robbery, murder, or domestic violence incident.

Their job requires tact, courage, clear-headedness and the ability to act quickly and decisively.

Sometimes they carry weapons. At other times, they may be involved in high speed chases.

Our own safety and security, and that of our communities, depends upon them.

So it is vital, if they are not to put themselves or others in danger, that officers on duty are alert and ready at all times. That is why North Yorkshire Police are to be commended for their courage in being one of the first forces to introduce random testing for alcohol and illegal drugs.

Despite what programmes like The Bill might have you believe, we don't for a moment think that our officers in North Yorkshire are habitual drunks or drug abusers. But they are human.

This new policy sends out the clearest of messages to criminals and ordinary, law-abiding people alike: we have faith in our officers, and we know they are up to the job. That is just the message we want to hear.